First-person essays about love, family, work, community and culture in Minnesota.

Gig economy is terrifying – and totally worth it for this Minnesota freelancer

A freelancer weighs the pros and cons of the fast-growing self-employment sector.

10,000 Takes

I'm a baby boomer lost in the millennial world of a co-working office space

August 28

What a 60-year-old learned when she rented a desk at a Minneapolis co-working office for freelancers, start-ups and other entrepreneurs.

10,000 Takes

An author's 40-year fascination (and theory) about Congdon murders

June 27

Double homicide case became a career-long quest for this Twin Cities reporter and writer.

Variety

May 22

I divorced my husband but forged a lasting bond with his ex-wife

At first I assumed the worst about her. But she proved herself an ally and true friend.

Variety

May 17

Can the 'No Buy' challenge cure my shopping habit?

I'm practically a fixture at Twin Cities vintage boutiques and bookstores. Could I make it one month without buying anything?

Variety

May 11

Millennial thanks the 'unofficial mothers' she met in Minnesota

The matriarchs whom this East Coast 20-something found in Minnesota weren't blood-related, weren't teachers, weren't necessarily bosses — but they looked out for a newcomer missing her mother.

Variety

April 25

Why men like me should talk openly about depression

We're supposed to keep our feelings buried, but I've learned there's a better way.

Variety

April 19

Minneapolis caterer recalls four unforgettable, regrettable '80s proms

From fashion fails to arranged dates, prom nights were memorable for all the wrong reasons.

Variety

April 4

How I learned to stop worrying and start loving leggings

They might be America's most hated fashion trend, but I love my leggings anyway.

Variety

March 31

How the 1987 Minnesota Twins helped me grieve my father

His father died in March 1987. Days later, the Twins embarked upon their championship season.

StarTribune